News Release

Friday, February 29, 2008

Suspect Commits Homicide in front of Restaurant and Is Quickly Apprehended

Los Angeles: At approximately 1:40 a.m. this morning, a homicide occurred in front of an International House of Pancakes at 4070 Lincoln Blvd.

Prior to the incident, the suspect, 37-year-old Victor Vela, got into an argument in front of a bar across the street from the restaurant. As the bar was preparing to close, the argument was broken up, and the victim, a 44-year-old African American male, crossed the street to the restaurant.

Vela followed the victim, resumed arguing and started a fight. Vela then allegedly struck the victim in the torso with a chain, stabbed him and fled the scene on a skateboard. Several witnesses at the scene called for help, so the LAPD immediately put out a radio broadcast and the suspect was taken into custody shortly after the incident, just a few blocks away.

The victim was transported to UCLA Medical Center but succumbed to his injuries. For the time being, the victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact Pacific Division Homicide Detectives at 310-482-6313. During off-hours or on weekends, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).